Samsung Unleashes Tizen-Based Gear 2 Smartwatches

Samsung Electronics has announced a new family of wearable gadgets, the Gear 2 smartwatches. The manufacturer slightly changed the internal architecture of its smartwatches in a bid to make them more powerful and more independent than their predecessor. The new devices are powered by Tizen operating system and can support applications that are specifically designed for them. Still, Samsung has not yet announced a software development program for the Gear 2.

“Samsung continues to lead innovation in the wearable market by creating devices that are completely integrated into the lives of consumers through extended connectivity features, stylish customization options and a robust application ecosystem. With the Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo, we have enhanced everything consumers love about the Gear to offer unparalleled smart freedom in their everyday life,” said JK Shin, chief executive officer and president of IT & mobile division at Samsung Electronics.

Just like predecessors, the Samsung Gear 2 notifies users of incoming messages, such as calls, texts, emails and alerts, delivers a preview of those messages and to accept or discreetly ignore those messages. As with traditional music players, the Gear 2 family helps users browse, play and pause songs even when their smart device is not within reach. Both devices also offer personal fitness coaching in real time, allowing users to develop a customizable fitness routine and monitor their heart rate in order to improve their overall well-being.

Unlike predecessors, the Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo can control electronic products such as TV, set-top-box through WatchON Remote application and an embedded IrLED sensor. The addition of a standalone music player with Bluetooth headset means people can leave their smartphone at home and still enjoy their music on the go.

Samsung Gear 2-series sports 1.63” display (superAMOLED, 320*320 resolution), dual-core 1GHz processor, 512MB RAM, Tizen-based operating system, 4GB of NAND flash storage, heart-rate sensor, pedometer, accelerometer, gyroscope as well as Bluetooth v4.0 LE and IrLED connectivity. The Gear 2 2MP features a camera with auto-focus that is integrated into the body of the device; the Gear 2 Neo does not feature a camera.

Both devices offer a lightweight design with premium finishes that reflect modern trends. Consumers are now available to express their mood or coordinate with their outfit with modern and sophisticated strap color options including Charcoal Black, Gold Brown and Wild Orange for Gear2 and Charcoal Black, Mocha Grey and Wild Orange for Gear2 Neo. The home screen background, clock face and font are also customizable to reflect their personal taste.

The Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo let users connect to a wide variety of Samsung devices and access an enriched application ecosystem as the first wearable powered by Tizen based wearable platform. Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo are compatible with more than dozens of Samsung Galaxy smartphones at launch.

Samsung Gear 2 and Gear 2 Neo will be available around the world starting from April.